Baldwin of Forde
Baldwin of Forde served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1185 to 1190. A former Cistercian monk and canon lawyer, he was appointed by King Henry II and became involved in significant disputes with his cathedral clergy and played a role in the politics of the Third Crusade. He died in the Holy Land while participating in the crusade.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1185 to 1190.
- ›Was a Cistercian monk and abbot of Forde before becoming bishop.
- ›Impressed King Henry II, who insisted on his appointment as Archbishop.
- ›Engaged in a significant dispute with Christ Church Priory monks, leading to their imprisonment.
- ›Preached and raised money for the Third Crusade in Wales with Gerald of Wales.
- ›Died in the Holy Land while participating in the Third Crusade.
- Wrote Theological Works and Sermons, Some of Which Have Survived.
- Impressed King Henry Ii With His Intervention In A Secular Case.
- Preached and Raised Support For the Third Crusade.
- Crowned Richard I At Westminster Abbey.
About Baldwin of Forde
Baldwin of Forde (c. 1125 – 19 November 1190)
Baldwin of Forde served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1185 until his death in 1190. His career spanned significant ecclesiastical and political events of the late 12th century, including his involvement in the Becket controversy, his service to Kings Henry II and Richard I, and his participation in the Third Crusade.
Life and Historical Context
Born around 1125 in Exeter, Baldwin was the son of a clergyman. He received a distinguished education, studying canon law and theology, possibly at Bologna, and tutored Pope Eugene III's nephew. He returned to England and served bishops of Exeter before becoming a Cistercian monk. After becoming abbot of the monastery at Forde, he was elected bishop of Worcester. His theological writings and sermons gained attention before his elevation to Canterbury.
Major Contributions and Career
Baldwin's appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury was strongly influenced by King Henry II, who was impressed by Baldwin's character and actions. As archbishop, Baldwin faced considerable opposition from the monks of Christ Church Priory in Canterbury. A major dispute arose over his attempts to assert control and his proposal to found a church staffed by secular clergy, which the monks feared would undermine their monastic cathedral chapter. This conflict led to the monks' imprisonment within their cloister for an extended period.
Baldwin was also a prominent figure in the religious and political landscape of his time. He took the cross and actively preached in support of the Third Crusade, spending significant time in Wales with Gerald of Wales to rally support. He crowned Richard I as king and later accompanied him on the Third Crusade, traveling to the Holy Land. During his time in the Holy Land, he became involved in the complex politics of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
Writings and Legacy
Before and during his episcopal career, Baldwin produced theological works and sermons. His writings, such as "De sacramento altaris" and "De commendatione fidei," along with his sermons, were influential and have survived in various manuscripts, with modern editions making them accessible. He is recognized as a canonist and was noted for his preaching. Baldwin died in the Holy Land on November 19, 1190, while participating in the crusade, leaving behind a legacy as a significant, though often embattled, church leader.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Baldwin of Forde Archbishop of Canterbury?
Baldwin of Forde served as the Archbishop of Canterbury between 1185 and 1190. He was translated from the see of Worcester to Canterbury in December 1184.
What was Baldwin of Forde known for before becoming Archbishop?
Before his appointment as Archbishop, Baldwin was a Cistercian monk and abbot of Forde. He also studied canon law and theology and served successive bishops of Exeter.
What were the major disputes during Baldwin's time as Archbishop?
As Archbishop, Baldwin had a significant dispute with the monks of Christ Church Priory over his attempts to impose stricter control and his plan to establish a church staffed by secular clergy. This led to the monks being imprisoned for over a year.
Did Baldwin of Forde participate in the Third Crusade?
Yes, Baldwin of Forde took the cross and actively preached and raised money for the Third Crusade. He accompanied King Richard I to the Holy Land and died there while participating in the crusade.
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